Our 2017 IOAD Stakeholder Report, which outlines what International Overdose Awareness Day has achieved in recent years,
is now available.
The number of registered events world-wide has grown from 75
in 2013 to nearly 500 in 2017 and 2018 promises to be even bigger.

A program focused on youth health is at the centre of a revitalised ‘YEAH’. After 12 years empowering young Australians to prevent the spread of HIV and other Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI’s) YEAH now has a new home at Penington Institute.

Penington Institute advances health and community safety by connecting substance use research to practical action.

Launched in 2014, Penington Institute, a not for profit organisation, has grown out of the rich and vibrant work of one of its programs – Anex, and its close to 20 years experience working with people and families directly affected by problematic drug use.

Penington Institute addresses this complex issue with knowledge and compassion. We not only help individuals, but also the wider community through our research analysis, promotion of effective strategies, workforce education and public awareness activities.

Understand Ice

Understand Ice is a campaign and website aimed at supporting young people who are using or contemplating using ice and their friends and family. For the person using, there is the stigma and fear of what people will think, coupled with the prospect that experimental or irregular use of ice can become regular and problematic. For friends and family, dealing with a loved one using ice can range from a real concern, to what feels like a fully blown disaster. The site provide practical advice and information on what to do if ice becomes an issue and tips to help people manage their situation.

International Overdose Awareness Day, 31 August

International Overdose Awareness Day raises awareness of the costs of overdose to individuals, their families and community, and promotes strategies to keep people safe and reduce the toll. Prescription drugs are now more commonly involved in overdoses than illicit substances. This means that fatal overdose is an increasing concern for the wider community.

COPE (Community Overdose Prevention and Education)

The Community Overdose and Education Program (COPE) supports a multi-sector effort to raise awareness and provide training in overdose response, including the use of naloxone, an overdose reversal drug, available to people who may witness a family member, friend or colleague’s overdose.